National Aquarium

Baltimore’s No. 1 tourist attraction? The world-famous National Aquarium, which sees over 1.6 visitors per year. With more than 16,000 creatures, the aquarium’s most popular attraction is Dolphin Discovery, where visitors can watch dolphin training, feeding and playing throughout the day. 9601280

Baltimore’s No. 1 tourist attraction? The world-famous National Aquarium, which sees over 1.6 visitors per year. With more than 16,000 creatures, the aquarium’s most popular attraction is Dolphin Discovery, where visitors can watch dolphin training, feeding and playing throughout the day.

iStock

Federal Hill

Federal Hill

For the best view of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, head to the city’s historic and lively Federal Hill neighborhood. From antique shops to sports pubs, this area reflects the many sides of Charm City's quirky personality.9601280

For the best view of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, head to the city’s historic and lively Federal Hill neighborhood. From antique shops to sports pubs, this area reflects the many sides of Charm City's quirky personality.

Andrew Bossi, flickr

Walters Art Gallery

Walters Art Gallery

Once the private collection of a wealthy Baltimore tycoon and later his son, this collection of art spans 55 centuries, with works from around the world. Treasures include Egyptian mummy masks, Art Deco jewelry and 19th-century French Impressionist paintings. 9601280

Once the private collection of a wealthy Baltimore tycoon and later his son, this collection of art spans 55 centuries, with works from around the world. Treasures include Egyptian mummy masks, Art Deco jewelry and 19th-century French Impressionist paintings.

Vox Efx, flickr

American Visionary Museum

American Visionary Museum

With Baltimore’s quirky and down-to-earth personality, it’s only fitting that you’ll find a museum here full of art by self-taught artists. Treasures include a life-size, interactive chess set of sculpted metal (made to resemble angels and demons) and an outdoor 55-foot-tall, colorful wind-powered sculpture, WhirliGig.9601280

With Baltimore’s quirky and down-to-earth personality, it’s only fitting that you’ll find a museum here full of art by self-taught artists. Treasures include a life-size, interactive chess set of sculpted metal (made to resemble angels and demons) and an outdoor 55-foot-tall, colorful wind-powered sculpture, WhirliGig.

Dan Meyers

Inner Harbor

Inner Harbor

A major seaport hub since the 1700s, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the center of the city’s tourism today: The National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center and numerous dining and shopping options can be found near the waterfront. For an affordable and fun way to see these sites from the water, take a water taxi, which runs year-round.9601280

A major seaport hub since the 1700s, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the center of the city’s tourism today: The National Aquarium, Maryland Science Center and numerous dining and shopping options can be found near the waterfront. For an affordable and fun way to see these sites from the water, take a water taxi, which runs year-round.

kymagirl, flickr

Fell’s Point

Fell’s Point

This lively waterfront neighborhood was once one of America's most important colonial seaports. Today, historic homes and cobblestone streets mix with rowdy nightlife and unique shops in what is the city’s densest collection of pubs, bars and restaurants.9601280

This lively waterfront neighborhood was once one of America's most important colonial seaports. Today, historic homes and cobblestone streets mix with rowdy nightlife and unique shops in what is the city’s densest collection of pubs, bars and restaurants.

Paul York, flickr

Maryland Blue Crabs

Maryland Blue Crabs

So what’s a Baltimorean’s favorite pastime -- and most revered art form? Cracking the hard shells of Maryland blue crabs, of course! What might seem like a messy meal of crustaceans to some is nothing short of the best meal in town to locals. And don’t even think of forgetting the Old Bay, the signature seasoning on top of this Charm City delicacy.9601280

So what’s a Baltimorean’s favorite pastime -- and most revered art form? Cracking the hard shells of Maryland blue crabs, of course! What might seem like a messy meal of crustaceans to some is nothing short of the best meal in town to locals. And don’t even think of forgetting the Old Bay, the signature seasoning on top of this Charm City delicacy.

enigmachck, flickr

Sport Legends Museum

Sport Legends Museum

Located in Camden Yards, this museum profiles Maryland’s prolific sports history. See artifacts and exhibits from Baltimore’s sports legends, from Babe Ruth to Cal Ripken. Babe Ruth’s Birthplace and Museum is just minutes away if you want to explore even more of the baseball hero’s life.9601280

Located in Camden Yards, this museum profiles Maryland’s prolific sports history. See artifacts and exhibits from Baltimore’s sports legends, from Babe Ruth to Cal Ripken. Babe Ruth’s Birthplace and Museum is just minutes away if you want to explore even more of the baseball hero’s life.

Andrew Horne, Wikimedia Commons

Domino Sugars Sign

Domino Sugars Sign

You know you’re in Baltimore when you see the iconic 120-foot-tall Domino Sugars sign adorn the Inner Harbor skyline. The best time to see the sugar refinery landmark is at night, when its 650 tubes of neon light up Charm City’s skies. 9601280

You know you’re in Baltimore when you see the iconic 120-foot-tall Domino Sugars sign adorn the Inner Harbor skyline. The best time to see the sugar refinery landmark is at night, when its 650 tubes of neon light up Charm City’s skies.

Aaron Webb, flickr

Fort McHenry

Fort McHenry

This star-shaped brick fort is famous for its role in the War of 1812. The national monument, which staved off a British invasion, later inspired Francis Scott Key to pen a poem, “Defence of Fort McHenry” -- the words of which later served as the lyrics to his “Star-Spangled Banner.” 9601280

This star-shaped brick fort is famous for its role in the War of 1812. The national monument, which staved off a British invasion, later inspired Francis Scott Key to pen a poem, “Defence of Fort McHenry” -- the words of which later served as the lyrics to his “Star-Spangled Banner.”

Thinkstock

Oriole Park at Camden Yards

Oriole Park at Camden Yards

One of the first “retro revival” stadiums, Oriole Park at Camden Yards was built on a former railroad site in 1992. The Major League Baseball ballpark is only 2 blocks from the birthplace of baseball legend Babe Ruth. 9601280

One of the first “retro revival” stadiums, Oriole Park at Camden Yards was built on a former railroad site in 1992. The Major League Baseball ballpark is only 2 blocks from the birthplace of baseball legend Babe Ruth.

Keith Allison, flickr

Maryland Science Center

Maryland Science Center

Located in the Inner Harbor, the Maryland Science Center has 3 floors of interactive and educational exhibits, as well as an IMAX theater and planetarium. No matter what your age, you’ll find something new to learn -- and amuse you -- on every visit.9601280

Located in the Inner Harbor, the Maryland Science Center has 3 floors of interactive and educational exhibits, as well as an IMAX theater and planetarium. No matter what your age, you’ll find something new to learn -- and amuse you -- on every visit.

Maryland Science Center

Edgar Allan Poe Grave and Memorial

Edgar Allan Poe Grave and Memorial

Nevermore, B’more, quoth the Raven. While this poet of the macabre has gone down in history as one of Baltimore’s most famous residents, sadly, one of his old haunts -- a site later known as the Baltimore Poe House and Museum -- closed its doors in 2012. But you can still leave a penny on the wordsmith’s grave, which has been tradition since the 1870s (when school children collected pennies to buy the poet a proper grave). 9601280

Nevermore, B’more, quoth the Raven. While this poet of the macabre has gone down in history as one of Baltimore’s most famous residents, sadly, one of his old haunts -- a site later known as the Baltimore Poe House and Museum -- closed its doors in 2012. But you can still leave a penny on the wordsmith’s grave, which has been tradition since the 1870s (when school children collected pennies to buy the poet a proper grave).

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Photos

Rooftop Movies -- Perth, Australia

Australia’s balmy nights just got cooler atop this rooftop oasis in Perth. You’ll have the Perth city skyline in the background while watching popular releases and cult classics. The scene at Rooftop Movies has a retro-Miami Beach feel complete with palm trees, astro turf, a series of vintage caravans from which food and drinks are served, beach chairs to lounge in and hundreds of pink flamingoes. 9601280

Australia’s balmy nights just got cooler atop this rooftop oasis in Perth. You’ll have the Perth city skyline in the background while watching popular releases and cult classics. The scene at Rooftop Movies has a retro-Miami Beach feel complete with palm trees, astro turf, a series of vintage caravans from which food and drinks are served, beach chairs to lounge in and hundreds of pink flamingoes.

Jarrad Seng

Millennium Park -- Chicago

Millennium Park -- Chicago

Chicago?s Millennium Park is already an impressive sight, even without its new state-of-the-art 40-by-23-foot LED movie screen. The park?s latest high-tech attraction draws both Chicagoans and tourists alike to spread a blanket out on the Great Lawn for its Summer Film Series. 9601280

Chicago?s Millennium Park is already an impressive sight, even without its new state-of-the-art 40-by-23-foot LED movie screen. The park?s latest high-tech attraction draws both Chicagoans and tourists alike to spread a blanket out on the Great Lawn for its Summer Film Series.

Mirage City Cinema -- UAE

Mirage City Cinema -- UAE

Past meets future at Mirage City Cinema, with ancient Sharjah architecture in the backdrop of a modern open-air movie projection. Floor carpets, which were traditionally used in Arab cultures for relaxing, are scattered throughout the courtyard, adding to the laid-back atmosphere of the outdoor cinema space. 9601280

Past meets future at Mirage City Cinema, with ancient Sharjah architecture in the backdrop of a modern open-air movie projection. Floor carpets, which were traditionally used in Arab cultures for relaxing, are scattered throughout the courtyard, adding to the laid-back atmosphere of the outdoor cinema space.

Buro Ole Scheeren

Cine Thisio -- Athens

Cine Thisio -- Athens

It has to be a surreal experience to have ancient Greek ruins in the background as you watch a summer blockbuster. Built in 1935, Cine Thisio is the oldest outdoor movie theater in Athens, with impressive views of the Acropolis and the Parthenon just beyond. 9601280

It has to be a surreal experience to have ancient Greek ruins in the background as you watch a summer blockbuster. Built in 1935, Cine Thisio is the oldest outdoor movie theater in Athens, with impressive views of the Acropolis and the Parthenon just beyond.

Basil Koutroumani

Little Italy Film Festival -- Baltimore

Little Italy Film Festival -- Baltimore

After a meal in Baltimore's Little Italy, stay for " Cinema al Fresco ," one of Little Italy's most popular events, now in its 16th year. Movies are projected on the outside wall of Ciao Bella Restaurant, and you’ll see all the Italian-themed classics from Moonstruck to Cinema Paradiso. 9601280

After a meal in Baltimore's Little Italy, stay for " Cinema al Fresco ," one of Little Italy's most popular events, now in its 16th year. Movies are projected on the outside wall of Ciao Bella Restaurant, and you’ll see all the Italian-themed classics from Moonstruck to Cinema Paradiso.

VisitBaltimore.com

Movies at the Mural -- Seattle

Movies at the Mural -- Seattle

Watch movies by moonlight with the Space Needle and the starry skies as the backdrop to Seattle’s summer Movies at the Mural. Picnic on the Mural Amphitheatre lawn, in front of a giant, state-of-the-art, 45-foot screen. 9601280

Watch movies by moonlight with the Space Needle and the starry skies as the backdrop to Seattle’s summer Movies at the Mural. Picnic on the Mural Amphitheatre lawn, in front of a giant, state-of-the-art, 45-foot screen.

shelmac, Flickr

Open Air Cinema -- Bondi Beach, Australia

Open Air Cinema -- Bondi Beach, Australia

It’s no surprise that beach-loving Australians watch movies on the beach, too. Watch a film at Open Air Cinema amid views of Australia's most famous beach, Bondi Beach. Before the show begins, grab some gourmet food and drinks from a festival bar and listen to local musicians, then settle in for a full night of beachside entertainment. 9601280

It’s no surprise that beach-loving Australians watch movies on the beach, too. Watch a film at Open Air Cinema amid views of Australia's most famous beach, Bondi Beach. Before the show begins, grab some gourmet food and drinks from a festival bar and listen to local musicians, then settle in for a full night of beachside entertainment.

Phil Whitehouse, Flickr

Boulder Outdoor Cinema -- Boulder, CO

Boulder Outdoor Cinema -- Boulder, CO

Boulder's Outdoor Cinema is a popular summer night tradition for many outdoors lovers. While waiting for the sun to set and the movie to begin, enjoy local musicians and a trivia contest. 9601280

Boulder's Outdoor Cinema is a popular summer night tradition for many outdoors lovers. While waiting for the sun to set and the movie to begin, enjoy local musicians and a trivia contest.

Michael Totays

St. George OpenAir Cinema -- Sydney

St. George OpenAir Cinema -- Sydney

Located at Mrs. Macquarie’s Point, St. George OpenAir Cinema offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The movie screen literally rises out of Sydney Harbour. No need to pack a blanket and a picnic basket; this cinema has stadium seating and its own bars and restaurants.9601280

Located at Mrs. Macquarie’s Point, St. George OpenAir Cinema offers stunning views of Sydney Harbour. The movie screen literally rises out of Sydney Harbour. No need to pack a blanket and a picnic basket; this cinema has stadium seating and its own bars and restaurants.

Sarah Rhodes

Outdoor Cinema at Parc de la Villette -- Paris

Outdoor Cinema at Parc de la Villette -- Paris

How can a summer night in Paris get any more romantic? Perhaps by watching a French film on a blanket at the Parc de la Villette with a Parisian picnic of cheese, baguette and wine. 9601280

How can a summer night in Paris get any more romantic? Perhaps by watching a French film on a blanket at the Parc de la Villette with a Parisian picnic of cheese, baguette and wine.

A. Legrai

Montjuic Castle/ SalaMontjuïc -- Barcelona

Montjuic Castle/ SalaMontjuïc -- Barcelona

Every summer Barcelona’s locals gather at the moat area at Montjuic Castle to watch classic and current movies. It wouldn’t be a Spanish night without a little music, so enjoy live music like bossa nova and flamenco before the movie starts. 9601280

Every summer Barcelona’s locals gather at the moat area at Montjuic Castle to watch classic and current movies. It wouldn’t be a Spanish night without a little music, so enjoy live music like bossa nova and flamenco before the movie starts.

SalaMontjuïc

Film on the Rocks -- Denver

Film on the Rocks -- Denver

Watching a film at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre is sure to be unforgettable -- this is the only naturally occurring, acoustically perfect amphitheatre in the world. Thanks to Mother Nature, the design of the amphitheatre consists of two 300-foot monoliths -- a dramatic backdrop for movie night. 9601280

Watching a film at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre is sure to be unforgettable -- this is the only naturally occurring, acoustically perfect amphitheatre in the world. Thanks to Mother Nature, the design of the amphitheatre consists of two 300-foot monoliths -- a dramatic backdrop for movie night.

Paul Maynard

Film Night in the Park -- San Francisco

Film Night in the Park -- San Francisco

Film buffs gather in beautiful Bay Area parks like Dolores Park for Film Night in the Park. This year's 23st season offers crowd favorites from Up to Silver Linings Playbook. 9601280

Film buffs gather in beautiful Bay Area parks like Dolores Park for Film Night in the Park. This year's 23st season offers crowd favorites from Up to Silver Linings Playbook.

Screen on the Green -- Washington, DC

Screen on the Green -- Washington, DC

The tourists might take over the National Mall in the summer, but Washingtonians take it back for the summer movie series Screen on the Green. Each event in the series attracts approximately 15,000 Washingtonians (tourist are allowed, too). Arrive early with blankets to picnic on the Mall and enjoy one of DC’s most popular summer nights out. 9601280

The tourists might take over the National Mall in the summer, but Washingtonians take it back for the summer movie series Screen on the Green. Each event in the series attracts approximately 15,000 Washingtonians (tourist are allowed, too). Arrive early with blankets to picnic on the Mall and enjoy one of DC’s most popular summer nights out.

Erin M, Flickr

Film4 Summer Screen -- London

Film4 Summer Screen -- London

London's Somerset House, a spectacular neoclassical building in the heart of London near the River Thames, offers a dramatic backdrop to watch a movie under the summer night stars. Tourists and locals alike rank Film4 Summer Screen as one of the city's best things to do in the summer. 9601280

London's Somerset House, a spectacular neoclassical building in the heart of London near the River Thames, offers a dramatic backdrop to watch a movie under the summer night stars. Tourists and locals alike rank Film4 Summer Screen as one of the city's best things to do in the summer.

January

February

Big Sky Documentary Film FestivalMissoula, MTAt the historic Wilma Theater in downtown Missoula, Montana’s largest cinema event showcases an average of 125 nonfiction films annually. Along with screenings of new and classic documentaries, the festival includes film discussions, pitch sessions and workshops for aspiring filmmakers.More Festivals in February:Magnolia Independent Film Festival -- Starkville, MSAppalachian Film Festival -- Huntington, WVBig Dam Film Festival -- Quincy, ILCarolina Film and Video Festival -- Greensboro, NCStarLite Film Festival -- Winter Garden, FL9601280

Big Sky Documentary Film FestivalMissoula, MTAt the historic Wilma Theater in downtown Missoula, Montana’s largest cinema event showcases an average of 125 nonfiction films annually. Along with screenings of new and classic documentaries, the festival includes film discussions, pitch sessions and workshops for aspiring filmmakers.More Festivals in February:Magnolia Independent Film Festival -- Starkville, MSAppalachian Film Festival -- Huntington, WVBig Dam Film Festival -- Quincy, ILCarolina Film and Video Festival -- Greensboro, NCStarLite Film Festival -- Winter Garden, FL

flickr, BigSkyFilm

March

March

Disposable Film FestivalSan FranciscoDisposable video is considered any short film made on an inexpensive device, such as a cell phone. But while moments captured with low-cost video technology may be considered "disposable," that doesn't mean they're not worthy of attention. Kicking off each year in San Francisco before going on tour across the country, this festival gives the work of non-traditional filmmakers the chance to be taken seriously.More Festivals in March:Ann Arbor Film Festival -- Ann Arbor, MICharlotte Film Festival -- Charlotte, NCDIY Film Festival -- Hollywood, CA 9601280

Disposable Film FestivalSan FranciscoDisposable video is considered any short film made on an inexpensive device, such as a cell phone. But while moments captured with low-cost video technology may be considered "disposable," that doesn't mean they're not worthy of attention. Kicking off each year in San Francisco before going on tour across the country, this festival gives the work of non-traditional filmmakers the chance to be taken seriously.More Festivals in March:Ann Arbor Film Festival -- Ann Arbor, MICharlotte Film Festival -- Charlotte, NCDIY Film Festival -- Hollywood, CA

Jamie Lubiner

April

April

Aspen ShortsfestAspen, COSet among the mountains of Colorado, Aspen Shortsfest is an Oscar-qualifying international competition featuring a selection of drama, comedy, animation and documentary -- all at 40 minutes or less.More Festivals in April:Atlanta Film Festival – AtlantaIndependent Film Festival of Boston – BostonNashville Film Festival -- Nashville, TN9601280

Aspen ShortsfestAspen, COSet among the mountains of Colorado, Aspen Shortsfest is an Oscar-qualifying international competition featuring a selection of drama, comedy, animation and documentary -- all at 40 minutes or less.More Festivals in April:Atlanta Film Festival – AtlantaIndependent Film Festival of Boston – BostonNashville Film Festival -- Nashville, TN

NOIR Concepts

May

May

Maryland Film FestivalBaltimoreAn annual 4-day event, the Maryland Film Festival screens approximately 50 feature films and 75 short films of all varieties including documentary, animation, experimental and hybrid. The festival also includes a vintage silent film with live musical accompaniment, a classic 3-D film and a feature selected and hosted by legendary filmmaker (and Baltimore native) John Waters.More Festivals in May: 3-Minute Film Fest -- Santa Fe, NMBig Island Film Festival -- Kohala Coast, HICheyenne International Film Festival -- Cheyenne, WY9601280

Maryland Film FestivalBaltimoreAn annual 4-day event, the Maryland Film Festival screens approximately 50 feature films and 75 short films of all varieties including documentary, animation, experimental and hybrid. The festival also includes a vintage silent film with live musical accompaniment, a classic 3-D film and a feature selected and hosted by legendary filmmaker (and Baltimore native) John Waters.More Festivals in May: 3-Minute Film Fest -- Santa Fe, NMBig Island Film Festival -- Kohala Coast, HICheyenne International Film Festival -- Cheyenne, WY

Holly Burke

June

June

Waterfront Film FestivalSaugatuck, MILooking to provide a "Middle Coast" venue for independent filmmakers, entertainment professionals from LA, NYC and Michigan created the Waterfront Film Festival, set in the tranquil resort village of Saugatuck.More Festivals in June:Little Rock Film Festival -- Little Rock, AKNantucket Film Festival -- Nantucket, MASan Antonio Film Festival -- San AntonioStaten Island Film Festival -- Staten Island, NY9601280

Waterfront Film FestivalSaugatuck, MILooking to provide a "Middle Coast" venue for independent filmmakers, entertainment professionals from LA, NYC and Michigan created the Waterfront Film Festival, set in the tranquil resort village of Saugatuck.More Festivals in June:Little Rock Film Festival -- Little Rock, AKNantucket Film Festival -- Nantucket, MASan Antonio Film Festival -- San AntonioStaten Island Film Festival -- Staten Island, NY

Waterfront Film Festival

July

July

da Vinci Film FestivalCorvallis, ORWhat began as a humble screening of animations in 1999 has evolved into a 3-day exhibition of indie film in the genres of documentary, animation, shorts, and experimental. The da Vinci Film Festival is held as part of "da Vinci Days" where the small town of Corvallis is taken over by artists, engineers and teachers in a sensory experience inspired by the ultimate Renaissance man.More Festivals in July:Sacramento Film and Music Festival -- Sacramento, CANew Hope Film Festival -- New Hope, PAReal to Reel International Film Festival -- Shelby, NC9601280

da Vinci Film FestivalCorvallis, ORWhat began as a humble screening of animations in 1999 has evolved into a 3-day exhibition of indie film in the genres of documentary, animation, shorts, and experimental. The da Vinci Film Festival is held as part of "da Vinci Days" where the small town of Corvallis is taken over by artists, engineers and teachers in a sensory experience inspired by the ultimate Renaissance man.More Festivals in July:Sacramento Film and Music Festival -- Sacramento, CANew Hope Film Festival -- New Hope, PAReal to Reel International Film Festival -- Shelby, NC

da Vinci Days, Inc.

August

August

Sidewalk Moving Picture FestivalBirmingham, ALLocated in several venues throughout Birmingham’s historic theatre district, Sidewalk promotes a sense of creativity as filmmakers and film-goers mingle between screenings. Enjoy the outdoors as well with the addition of Sidewalk Central, a live entertainment and vending venue.More Festivals in August:Fandana Film Festival -- Huntington, INFeel Good Film Festival -- San Clemente, CAMinneapolis Underground Film Festival – MinneapolisThe Indie Gathering -- Hudson, OH9601280

Sidewalk Moving Picture FestivalBirmingham, ALLocated in several venues throughout Birmingham’s historic theatre district, Sidewalk promotes a sense of creativity as filmmakers and film-goers mingle between screenings. Enjoy the outdoors as well with the addition of Sidewalk Central, a live entertainment and vending venue.More Festivals in August:Fandana Film Festival -- Huntington, INFeel Good Film Festival -- San Clemente, CAMinneapolis Underground Film Festival – MinneapolisThe Indie Gathering -- Hudson, OH

October

Tallgrass Film FestivalWichita, KSThe largest independent film festival in Kansas, this 4-day event showcases more than 100 films from around the world, including foreign, documentary, short, GLBT, retrospective and premiering films. The festival prides itself on giving a voice to films that would otherwise not have a theatrical screening in the region.More Festivals in October:Austin Film Festival -- Austin, TXBuffalo Screams Horror Film Festival -- Buffalo, NYInternational Children's Film Festival – ChicagoMidwest Ski Film Festival – MilwaukeeModern Film Fest -- Kannapolis, NC9601280

Tallgrass Film FestivalWichita, KSThe largest independent film festival in Kansas, this 4-day event showcases more than 100 films from around the world, including foreign, documentary, short, GLBT, retrospective and premiering films. The festival prides itself on giving a voice to films that would otherwise not have a theatrical screening in the region.More Festivals in October:Austin Film Festival -- Austin, TXBuffalo Screams Horror Film Festival -- Buffalo, NYInternational Children's Film Festival – ChicagoMidwest Ski Film Festival – MilwaukeeModern Film Fest -- Kannapolis, NC

Tallgrass Film Association

November

November

Columbus International Film & Video FestivalColumbus, OH9601280

Columbus International Film & Video FestivalColumbus, OH

Columbus Film Council

December

December

Santa Fe Film FestivalSanta Fe, NMBeginning in 1999 as a way to promote Santa Fe's identity as a cultural hub, the Santa Fe Film Festival quickly turned into a premier event for the area. The festival offers awards to films in the categories of best feature, best Native American film and best Latino film, among others.More Festivals in December:Reel Independent Film Festival -- Hollywood, CAMoondance International Film Festival -- Boulder, CODocMiami International Film Festival -- Miami9601280

Santa Fe Film FestivalSanta Fe, NMBeginning in 1999 as a way to promote Santa Fe's identity as a cultural hub, the Santa Fe Film Festival quickly turned into a premier event for the area. The festival offers awards to films in the categories of best feature, best Native American film and best Latino film, among others.More Festivals in December:Reel Independent Film Festival -- Hollywood, CAMoondance International Film Festival -- Boulder, CODocMiami International Film Festival -- Miami

Stadium

Located on Russell Street, the M&T Bank Stadium is home to the Baltimore Ravens. The stadium’s capacity is large enough to hold 71,004 fans. And just in case you didn’t know, the Ravens head into the Super Bowl with 10 wins and 6 losses for the 2012 NFL regular season.9601280

Located on Russell Street, the M&T Bank Stadium is home to the Baltimore Ravens. The stadium’s capacity is large enough to hold 71,004 fans. And just in case you didn’t know, the Ravens head into the Super Bowl with 10 wins and 6 losses for the 2012 NFL regular season.

Getty Images

Candlestick Park

Candlestick Park

In comparison, San Francisco’s Candlestick Park, home to the 49ers, has a seating capacity of 69,843. After winning 11 games and losing 4 during the 2012 NFL regular season, the 49ers are now preparing for their big game against the Baltimore Ravens.9601280

In comparison, San Francisco’s Candlestick Park, home to the 49ers, has a seating capacity of 69,843. After winning 11 games and losing 4 during the 2012 NFL regular season, the 49ers are now preparing for their big game against the Baltimore Ravens.

Getty Images

Military Site

Military Site

Baltimore’s Fort McHenry is best known for successfully defending Baltimore Harbor against a British navy attack during the War of 1812. It was during the attack that Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the poem that would eventually become the US national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”9601280

Baltimore’s Fort McHenry is best known for successfully defending Baltimore Harbor against a British navy attack during the War of 1812. It was during the attack that Francis Scott Key was inspired to write the poem that would eventually become the US national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

National Park Service

Presidio

Presidio

In 1776, the Presidio started out as a military base, but it would close its doors as an active base in 1989 as part of a military reduction program. Now a public park, the Presidio has wooded hills and the best panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bridge and the Pacific Ocean.9601280

In 1776, the Presidio started out as a military base, but it would close its doors as an active base in 1989 as part of a military reduction program. Now a public park, the Presidio has wooded hills and the best panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bridge and the Pacific Ocean.

Thinkstock

Crab

Crab

In Baltimore, nothing beats delicious soft blue crabs, served up at dozens of local restaurants, including Schultz’s Crab House, Crab Shanty and Mariner’s Landing.9601280

In Baltimore, nothing beats delicious soft blue crabs, served up at dozens of local restaurants, including Schultz’s Crab House, Crab Shanty and Mariner’s Landing.

istock

Dungeness Crabs

Dungeness Crabs

And in San Francisco, who can deny the incredibly fresh taste of Dungeness crabs at Anchor Oyster Bar, Crazy Crab’z, Sotto Mare and other local restaurants.9601280

And in San Francisco, who can deny the incredibly fresh taste of Dungeness crabs at Anchor Oyster Bar, Crazy Crab’z, Sotto Mare and other local restaurants.

Thinkstock

Waterfront

Waterfront

Both cities have great harbors. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the site of the National Aquarium, Sports Legends at Camden Yards and, just a few blocks away, Port Discovery Children’s Museum. Shop until you drop at Harborplace and the Gallery, and end your shopping spree with a casual walk along the picturesque waterfront.9601280

Both cities have great harbors. Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the site of the National Aquarium, Sports Legends at Camden Yards and, just a few blocks away, Port Discovery Children’s Museum. Shop until you drop at Harborplace and the Gallery, and end your shopping spree with a casual walk along the picturesque waterfront.

Thinkstock

Fisherman's Wharf

Fisherman's Wharf

In San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf is home to dozens of restaurants, bars and shops sure to keep any tourist busy. A variety of boat charters and bay cruises begin at the wharf, including boat tours to Alcatraz Island. The Aquarium of the Bay, Ghirardelli Square, Pier 39 and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum are just a few tourist attractions located nearby, and we’d be remiss to not mention the crowds that stand around to watch the street performers and sunbathing sea lions.9601280

In San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf is home to dozens of restaurants, bars and shops sure to keep any tourist busy. A variety of boat charters and bay cruises begin at the wharf, including boat tours to Alcatraz Island. The Aquarium of the Bay, Ghirardelli Square, Pier 39 and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum are just a few tourist attractions located nearby, and we’d be remiss to not mention the crowds that stand around to watch the street performers and sunbathing sea lions.

Thinkstock

Art Museum

Art Museum

Located in Baltimore’s Federal Hill neighborhood, the American Visionary Art Museum showcases original works of art created by self-taught artists. The museum comprises 3 renovated historic industrial buildings and sculpture gardens; all create the “un-museumy” atmosphere to display works by visionary artists, including Ho Baron, Nek Chand, Ted Gordon and Leo Sewell.9601280

Located in Baltimore’s Federal Hill neighborhood, the American Visionary Art Museum showcases original works of art created by self-taught artists. The museum comprises 3 renovated historic industrial buildings and sculpture gardens; all create the “un-museumy” atmosphere to display works by visionary artists, including Ho Baron, Nek Chand, Ted Gordon and Leo Sewell.

Paul Burk

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art

Founded in 1935, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art was the first museum on the West Coast devoted to modern and contemporary art. From modern masters to younger, less established artists, more than 27,000 works of art are on display. Visitors can take a self-guided tour, as well as watch video screenings, view interactive kiosks or participate in public programs to learn more about modern art.9601280

Founded in 1935, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art was the first museum on the West Coast devoted to modern and contemporary art. From modern masters to younger, less established artists, more than 27,000 works of art are on display. Visitors can take a self-guided tour, as well as watch video screenings, view interactive kiosks or participate in public programs to learn more about modern art.

Jamie McCaffrey, flickr

Most Popular Attraction

Most Popular Attraction

The National Aquarium is the most popular tourist destination in Baltimore. In 2003, aquariums in Baltimore and Washington DC, joined forces to become one National Aquarium; today, the facility showcases living collections of more than 16,000 animals, from more than 660 species of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals, all living in a makeshift natural habitat.9601280

The National Aquarium is the most popular tourist destination in Baltimore. In 2003, aquariums in Baltimore and Washington DC, joined forces to become one National Aquarium; today, the facility showcases living collections of more than 16,000 animals, from more than 660 species of fish, birds, amphibians, reptiles and mammals, all living in a makeshift natural habitat.

Golden Gate Bridge

In San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge is the most popular tourist attraction in the City by the Bay. The famous bridge was named after the Golden Gate Strait -- the entrance to San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean. As of May 2012, almost 2 million vehicles had crossed the Golden Gate Bridge since opening to traffic on May 28, 1937.9601280

In San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge is the most popular tourist attraction in the City by the Bay. The famous bridge was named after the Golden Gate Strait -- the entrance to San Francisco Bay from the Pacific Ocean. As of May 2012, almost 2 million vehicles had crossed the Golden Gate Bridge since opening to traffic on May 28, 1937.

Thinkstock

Historic Neighborhood

Historic Neighborhood

Welcome to Fell’s Point, a Baltimore neighborhood and historic district once populated by a large number of Polish and Irish immigrants. The waterfront community is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, coffee bars, music stores and the highest concentration of pubs in the city -- more than 120.9601280

Welcome to Fell’s Point, a Baltimore neighborhood and historic district once populated by a large number of Polish and Irish immigrants. The waterfront community is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, coffee bars, music stores and the highest concentration of pubs in the city -- more than 120.

duluoz cats, flickr

North Beach, San Francisco

North Beach, San Francisco

The American Planning Association has named San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood one of 10 “Great Neighborhoods in America.” Also known as Little Italy, the area has historically been home to a large Italian-American population. It was also the historic center of the 1950s beatnik literary movement. Today the neighborhood is populated by young professionals, families and Chinese immigrants.9601280

The American Planning Association has named San Francisco’s North Beach neighborhood one of 10 “Great Neighborhoods in America.” Also known as Little Italy, the area has historically been home to a large Italian-American population. It was also the historic center of the 1950s beatnik literary movement. Today the neighborhood is populated by young professionals, families and Chinese immigrants.

Alfonso Jimenez, flickr

Light Rail

Light Rail

One option for getting around Baltimore is the city’s light-rail system; it has a few main routes, including one that runs from Penn Station to Camden Yards.9601280

One option for getting around Baltimore is the city’s light-rail system; it has a few main routes, including one that runs from Penn Station to Camden Yards.

Gregory Wass, flickr

Muni

Muni

Out on the West Coast, the San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni), is one of America’s oldest public transit agencies. Today it carries over 200 million customers per year. Unlike Baltimore’s limited light-rail service, the Muni runs 24 hours, 7 days a week.9601280

Out on the West Coast, the San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni), is one of America’s oldest public transit agencies. Today it carries over 200 million customers per year. Unlike Baltimore’s limited light-rail service, the Muni runs 24 hours, 7 days a week.

Prayitno, flickr

Familiar Sign

Familiar Sign

It really isn’t a competition, but we thought we’d throw in a couple famous signs that most people will be familiar with after visiting the 2 Super Bowl cities. Like this, for example: Take a quick glance at Baltimore’s skyline and you’ll notice the Domino Sugars sign atop the company’s plant.9601280

It really isn’t a competition, but we thought we’d throw in a couple famous signs that most people will be familiar with after visiting the 2 Super Bowl cities. Like this, for example: Take a quick glance at Baltimore’s skyline and you’ll notice the Domino Sugars sign atop the company’s plant.

Mr. T in DC, flickr

The Castro Sign

The Castro Sign

Although it doesn’t light up San Fran’s skyline, the famous Castro sign does light up the neighborhood. The Castro was one of America’s first and largest gay neighborhoods.9601280

Although it doesn’t light up San Fran’s skyline, the famous Castro sign does light up the neighborhood. The Castro was one of America’s first and largest gay neighborhoods.

Ludovic Bertron, flickr

Best Food

Best Food

In comparing neighborhoods, Baltimore’s Little Italy is known for its authentic Italian food served at more than 30 restaurants, nestled between the Inner Harbor and historic Fell’s Point neighborhood.9601280

In comparing neighborhoods, Baltimore’s Little Italy is known for its authentic Italian food served at more than 30 restaurants, nestled between the Inner Harbor and historic Fell’s Point neighborhood.

Daniel Lobo, flickr

Chinatown, San Francisco

Chinatown, San Francisco

We could compare Baltimore’s Little Italy to San Francisco’s Little Italy, but we decided to go in a different direction. We opted instead to highlight San Fran’s Chinatown, where authentic Chinese food is served at restaurants like Golden Gate Bakery, Hunan Home’s Restaurant and Wing Sing.9601280

We could compare Baltimore’s Little Italy to San Francisco’s Little Italy, but we decided to go in a different direction. We opted instead to highlight San Fran’s Chinatown, where authentic Chinese food is served at restaurants like Golden Gate Bakery, Hunan Home’s Restaurant and Wing Sing.